Blood orange cordial is a vibrant and refreshing syrup that captures the unique tangy-sweet flavor of blood oranges. Perfect for mixing into cocktails, sparkling water, or drizzling over desserts, this cordial adds a burst of color and taste to any occasion.
We love how easy it is to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Using fresh blood oranges ensures the cordial has a natural brightness that store-bought versions often lack. Whether you’re looking to elevate your summer drinks or create a flavorful base for creative recipes, this blood orange cordial recipe is a must-try.
Let’s dive into making a homemade cordial that’s both versatile and delicious, bringing the essence of blood oranges right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Blood Orange Cordial, we gather fresh and simple ingredients that highlight the fruit’s natural vibrancy and balance the cordial’s sweetness. Here is everything we need to start:
- 6 large blood oranges — juiced and zested
- 1 lemon — juiced
- 2 cups granulated sugar — this provides the essential sweetness and acts as a preservative
- 1 cup water — used to dissolve the sugar and blend flavors
- 1 tablespoon citric acid — enhances acidity and improves shelf life
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Blood oranges | 6 large | Juice and zest |
| Lemon | 1 | Juice only |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | N/A |
| Water | 1 cup | N/A |
| Citric acid | 1 tablespoon | N/A |
We recommend using freshly squeezed blood orange juice to preserve the authentic flavor and vibrant color essential for an irresistible cordial. The zest adds a fragrant note that deepens the citrus profile, while the citric acid keeps it bright and refreshing, extending the cordial’s shelf life for future enjoyment.
Tip: Avoid pre-packaged juices as they often lack the fresh intensity and richness that make our Blood Orange Cordial special.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Blood Orange Cordial, having the right equipment is essential for achieving a vibrant flavor and smooth texture. Here is what we recommend:
- Citrus Juicer
A manual or electric juicer works best to extract fresh juice from the blood oranges and lemon. Using fresh juice enhances the bold flavor and bright color.
- Zester or Microplane
For removing the zest of blood oranges without the bitter white pith. The zest adds an aromatic depth to the cordial.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of sugar, water, and citric acid is crucial for balanced sweetness and perfect acidity.
- Medium Saucepan
Wide enough to allow even heating, essential for dissolving sugar fully and simmering the cordial without burning.
- Fine Mesh Sieve or Strainer
To strain out pulp and zest pieces, ensuring our cordial is smooth and clear.
- Sterilized Glass Bottles or Jars
For storing the cordial. Glass keeps the cordial fresh and maintains the vibrant color longer.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
To stir the mixture gently while it simmers without scratching your cookware.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Citrus Juicer | Extracts fresh juice from blood oranges and lemon |
| Zester or Microplane | Removes thin blood orange zest strips |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measures sugar, water, and citric acid precisely |
| Medium Saucepan | Simmering and dissolving sugar evenly |
| Fine Mesh Sieve or Strainer | Filters out pulp and zest |
| Sterilized Glass Bottles | Stores the cordial to maintain freshness |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Gentle stirring without damage |
Pro Tip: “Use a glass bottle with a tight sealing lid to preserve the sweet-tart vibrancy of our Blood Orange Cordial for weeks.”
This carefully selected equipment lineup ensures a professional finish and helps us capture the essence of fresh blood oranges perfectly in our cordial.
Prep Work
To ensure our Blood Orange Cordial achieves the perfect flavor and texture, thorough preparation is key. Let’s dive into the essential steps before we start cooking.
How to Juice Blood Oranges
Juicing fresh blood oranges properly is the foundation of our cordial’s vibrant taste. Here’s how we do it with ease and precision:
- Select ripe blood oranges that feel firm with a slight give when pressed.
- Wash the oranges thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract the juice. Roll the orange gently on the countertop with the palm of your hand to loosen the juices before cutting it in half.
- Cut each orange crosswise and place the halves on the juicer, applying firm pressure and rotating to maximize juice extraction.
- As you juice, catch seeds with your fingers or a small strainer to avoid bitterness in the cordial.
- Strain the freshly squeezed juice through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove pulp for a smooth syrup.
- Note the juice yield per orange to ensure accuracy if you want to scale the recipe.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Fruit Selection | Firm, ripe blood oranges |
| Washing | Rinse under cool running water |
| Prep | Roll fruit, cut into halves |
| Juicing Equipment | Citrus juicer or reamer |
| Straining | Fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp |
| Yield per Orange | Approximately 3-4 tablespoons (45-60 ml) |
“Using freshly squeezed blood orange juice—never bottled or concentrate—ensures our cordial bursts with the authentic bright and sweet-tart flavor that defines this recipe.”
Preparing Bottles for Storage
Proper storage protects the cordial’s fresh flavor and extends shelf life. Here is how we prepare bottles for storing our Blood Orange Cordial:
- Choose glass bottles or jars with tight-sealing lids to keep air out and preserve the syrup’s vibrant taste.
- Wash bottles thoroughly with hot soapy water. Rinse well.
- Sterilize the bottles by:
- Submerging in boiling water for 10 minutes, or
- Placing them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 15 minutes.
- Allow bottles to cool on a clean towel, then handle them with clean hands or gloves.
- Ensure lids are either sterilized or replaced with new lids to guarantee a proper seal.
- Label each bottle with the date to track freshness.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Bottle Type | Glass with tight-sealing lids |
| Cleaning | Hot soapy water + thorough rinse |
| Sterilization | Boiling water for 10 min or oven at 250°F for 15 min |
| Post-Sterilization | Cooling on clean towel, clean handling |
| Lids | Sterilized or new for airtight seal |
| Labeling | Date of bottling for freshness tracking |
Pro Tip: We always recommend glass over plastic bottles because glass won’t impart flavors and maintains the cordial’s bright intensity over weeks.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create a vibrant and flavorful Blood Orange Cordial that will enhance your drinks and desserts with its bright, sweet-tart character.
Making the Blood Orange Syrup
- Combine water and zest: In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of water and the zest of 6 large blood oranges.
- Simmer to infuse: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow the zest to infuse the water for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to release the aromatic oils.
- Strain the liquid: After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat. Use a fine mesh sieve or strainer to carefully strain out the zest, keeping the infused water clear and smooth.
- Set aside: Transfer the zest-infused water back to the saucepan for the next steps.
Adding Lemon Juice and Sugar
- Add fresh citrus: To the infused water, pour in the juice of 6 large blood oranges and 1 freshly squeezed lemon.
- Incorporate sugar: Add 2 cups of granulated sugar to the liquid.
- Mix thoroughly: Gently stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the sugar is evenly distributed but do not heat yet.
Mixing and Heating the Cordial
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan back on medium heat. Slowly warm the mixture, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar completely. Avoid boiling the syrup to preserve bright citrus notes.
- Add citric acid: Once the sugar is dissolved and the cordial is warm, stir in 1 tablespoon of citric acid. This step enhances acidity and extends shelf life while maintaining freshness.
- Simmer briefly: Let the cordial simmer gently for 2 minutes, continuing to stir to blend all flavors.
- Cool and strain: Remove from heat and allow the cordial to cool slightly. Strain once again if needed to ensure a silky, clear syrup.
- Bottle the cordial: Pour the cordial into sterilized glass bottles or jars using a funnel. Seal tightly with lids to lock in freshness.
| Step | Ingredient / Action | Time / Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Zest infusion | Water and blood orange zest | 1 cup water, zest of 6 oranges, 5 min simmer |
| Juice and sugar mix | Fresh juices and granulated sugar | Juice of 6 blood oranges, 1 lemon, 2 cups sugar |
| Heating and finishing | Heat, add citric acid, simmer | 1 tbsp citric acid, 2 min simmer |
Pro tip: Use sterilized glass bottles with airtight lids to preserve your Blood Orange Cordial for up to 3 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Label your bottles with the date to track freshness easily.
Directions for Using Blood Orange Cordial
Once we have our vibrant Blood Orange Cordial ready, knowing how to use it will truly unlock its full potential. This versatile syrup enhances drinks and dishes alike with its bold citrus flavor and vivid color.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend diluting blood orange cordial with sparkling or still water for a refreshing drink. Combine:
- 2 tablespoons of cordial
- 1 cup of cold sparkling water
- Ice cubes to taste
Stir gently and garnish with a slice of fresh blood orange or a sprig of mint for a visually stunning, tangy refresher.
For a lively twist on tea, add 1 tablespoon of cordial to brewed black or green tea, served hot or iced.
You can also drizzle the cordial over desserts like vanilla ice cream, panna cotta, or ricotta cheese to add a bright, sweet-tart boost that elevates flavor and presentation.
| Use Case | Serving Measure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Water | 2 tbsp cordial + 1 cup water | Garnish with orange slice or mint |
| Iced or Hot Tea | 1 tbsp cordial | Sweetens naturally with citrus |
| Dessert Drizzle | To taste | Complements creamy desserts |
Cocktail and Mocktail Recipes
The Blood Orange Cordial shines in cocktails and mocktails. Here are two recipes that showcase its vibrant flavor:
Classic Blood Orange Spritz
- 2 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 1 oz blood orange cordial
- 1 oz soda water
- Ice
- Blood orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice. Pour in cordial then add Prosecco. Top with soda water. Stir gently. Garnish with a blood orange slice.
Citrus Fizz Mocktail
- 3 oz sparkling water
- 1.5 oz blood orange cordial
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice. Combine cordial and lemon juice, pour over the ice. Top with sparkling water. Stir and garnish with mint.
Using blood orange cordial in your drinks adds a striking color and zesty flavor that instantly transforms simple beverages into memorable delights. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect balance.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage of our Blood Orange Cordial is essential to maintain its vibrant flavor and striking color. After bottling, seal the cordial in sterilized glass containers with airtight lids. This step locks in freshness and prevents oxidation that can dull the syrup’s bright notes.
Refrigeration
- Store the cordial in the refrigerator immediately after cooling.
- Keep the bottle tightly sealed to avoid absorption of odors from other foods.
- Under refrigeration, the cordial remains fresh for up to 3 weeks.
Freezing Option
- For longer storage, pour the cordial into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
- Frozen cordial can last for up to 6 months without compromising flavor.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Avoiding Contamination
- Always use clean utensils when pouring the cordial to prevent introducing bacteria.
- Avoid storing the cordial in plastic containers as they may affect the vibrant citrus flavor over time.
- Label each bottle with the bottling date to track freshness easily.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Sterilized glass | Up to 3 weeks | 35–40°F (2–4°C) |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe glass or plastic | Up to 6 months | 0°F (-18°C) or below |
Pro Tip: Using glass bottles with airtight lids not only keeps the syrup fresh but also preserves the cordial’s intense blood orange aroma and flavor far better than plastic alternatives.
By following these simple storage guidelines, we ensure that our homemade Blood Orange Cordial stays as vibrant and flavorful as the moment it was made.
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the perfect Blood Orange Cordial, we recommend following these essential tips carefully. These guidelines help maximize flavor, maintain vibrant color, and ensure a smooth texture throughout the process.
Select the Right Blood Oranges
- Choose ripe, heavy blood oranges with a deep red blush on their skin. This indicates rich flavor and vibrant juice color.
- Avoid fruit with blemishes or green spots which can taste bitter or underripe.
- Wash blood oranges thoroughly before zesting and juicing to remove any residues.
Optimize Zesting and Juicing
- Use a microplane or fine zester to gently remove only the colorful outer peel of the blood oranges. Avoid the bitter white pith beneath.
- Juice oranges immediately after zesting to preserve freshness and prevent oxidation.
- Strain juice through a fine mesh sieve to capture pulp and seeds, resulting in a smooth syrup.
Dissolving Sugar Properly
- Add granulated sugar slowly to the warm water infused with zest and blood orange juice to ensure it dissolves completely without gritty texture.
- Use medium heat when combining ingredients to gently dissolve sugar without boiling off aromatic oils or thickening too rapidly.
Incorporate Citric Acid Correctly
- Adding 1 tablespoon of citric acid boosts tang, enhances shelf life, and preserves that iconic bright hue.
- Stir citric acid thoroughly in while the syrup is still warm but off direct heat to evenly distribute it without clumping.
Cooling and Bottling
- Allow cordial to cool completely before transferring to sterilized glass bottles.
- Use bottles with airtight lids to maintain the syrup’s freshness and vibrant flavor for up to three weeks refrigerated.
Storage Recommendations
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 weeks | Seal with airtight lids, store in the back of fridge |
| Freezing | Up to 6 months | Use freezer-safe glass containers, thaw gently |
Prevent Contamination
- Always use clean utensils when handling the cordial to prevent bacteria introduction.
- Avoid plastic containers as they can absorb odors and dull fresh citrus flavor.
- Label bottles with bottling dates to monitor freshness.
Flavor Adjustment and Experimentation
- If the syrup tastes too sharp, add a little more sugar gradually to balance acidity.
- To enhance natural blood orange aroma, warm zest with water for 10 minutes before adding juice.
- Experiment by mixing basic syrup with sparkling water, tea, or cocktails to discover your favorite ratios.
“Using fresh ingredients and careful technique is the key to making an irresistible Blood Orange Cordial that bursts with vibrant color and bright citrus flavor.“
By implementing these tips we can ensure that our blood orange cordial recipe turns out beautifully every time.
Conclusion
Making blood orange cordial at home lets us capture the fresh vibrant flavors of this unique citrus fruit in a versatile syrup. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, we can create a bright and refreshing cordial that elevates drinks and desserts alike.
By following the right techniques and storage tips, our cordial stays flavorful and fresh for weeks, allowing us to enjoy its bold taste whenever we want. Whether we’re mixing up cocktails or adding a splash to sparkling water, this homemade syrup adds a delightful twist to any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make blood orange cordial?
You need 6 large blood oranges (juiced and zested), 1 lemon (juiced), 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and 1 tablespoon citric acid for the perfect blood orange cordial.
Why use fresh blood orange juice instead of store-bought?
Fresh juice maintains the authentic, vibrant flavor and color essential for the cordial, while pre-packaged juice often lacks intensity and freshness.
What equipment is necessary for making blood orange cordial?
You’ll need a citrus juicer, zester or microplane, measuring cups and spoons, a medium saucepan, fine mesh sieve, sterilized glass bottles or jars, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
How do I prepare the blood oranges for juicing?
Select ripe fruit, wash thoroughly, zest the oranges first, then juice them carefully to maximize extraction and avoid bitterness.
How should I store blood orange cordial?
Store in sterilized glass bottles with airtight lids in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to six months.
Why is citric acid added to the cordial?
Citric acid enhances acidity, balances flavor, and extends the cordial’s shelf life while keeping it bright and refreshing.
Can blood orange cordial be used in drinks?
Yes, it’s versatile—great for cocktails, mocktails, sparkling water, tea, and as a flavor enhancer in desserts.
How do I make the blood orange cordial syrup?
Infuse water with orange zest, add fresh juice and sugar, gently heat to dissolve sugar, add citric acid, simmer briefly, then cool, strain, and bottle.
Can I adjust the flavor of the cordial?
Absolutely! You can tweak sugar levels, acidity, and dilution to find the perfect balance that suits your taste.
Why use glass bottles instead of plastic for storage?
Glass prevents flavor alteration and helps maintain the cordial’s vibrant color and fresh taste longer.